Outerwear, bags and other gear including retaining structures particularly configured for carrying baby care articles

ABSTRACT

A bag or garment having a pocket or retaining structure particularly configured to secure a baby wipes container. The bag or garment may include an elongate slot and a retaining mechanism secured across the slot such that a baby wipes container placed between the slot and the retaining mechanism is secured thereto such that an opening in the baby wipes container for accessing wipes therein is aligned with the slot. The bag and garment may further include a particularly arranged pocket for holding a baby changing mat, bottles, diapers, and other baby paraphernalia.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a non-provisional application claimingpriority to co-pending provisional application No. 60/715,563 titled“Outwear, Bags, and other Gear Including Retaining StructuresParticularly Configured for Carrying Baby Care Articles,” filed on Sep.8, 2005, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Aspects of the present invention involve outerwear, bags, and other gearincluding retaining structures particularly configured for carrying babycare articles.

BACKGROUND

Conventional bags and garments often include numerous specializedpockets for a variety of accessories, including cell phones, personaldata assistants, music players, lap top computers and associatedaccessories, pens, pocket knives, and a myriad of other accessories.Bags and garments specifically designed for mothers and fathers ofbabies and toddlers may also include an assortment of pockets.Heretofore, however, it is believed that such bags and garments have notincluded specifically designed pockets and retaining structures for babywipes or for baby changing mats, and other combinations of pockets andstructures particularly configured for baby and toddler paraphernalia asset forth in more detail below.

SUMMARY

One aspect of the invention involves a bag that includes a retainingstructure adapted to secure a baby wipes container, the retainingstructure comprising a portion of fabric defining a slot and at leastone retaining portion of fabric positioned across the slot. A messengerbag or other bag type may further include a removable front flap, whichallows a user to customize their bag with different flaps havingdifferent unique designs. A bag may further include other pockets andstorage areas as set forth in greater detail herein.

Another aspect of the invention involves a garment, such as a coat orvest, that includes a baby wipes container pocket comprising a fabricpanel secured to an inner portion of the garment, the fabric paneldefining a slot oriented to provide access to a baby wipes containerplaced within the baby wipes container pocket. The garment may furtherinclude a baby changing mat pocket and other pockets and storage areas.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front view of a backpack including at least one babyparaphernalia retaining structure compartment; the backpack in FIG. 1 isclosed with a zipper such that the retaining structure is not visible;

FIG. 2 is a front view of the backpack illustrated in FIG. 1illustrating a front flap of a baby wipe type retaining structurepartially folded down;

FIG. 3 is a front view of the backpack of FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrating thefront flap in an open orientation exposing the baby wipe retainingstructure;

FIG. 4 is a front view of the backpack as illustrated in FIG. 3 alongwith a baby wipes container within the pocket such that an opening inthe container provides access to a portion of the baby wipes containerwhere a user can access the wipes contained therein, the actual babywipe being situated within a retaining structure window (baby wipepocket window);

FIG. 5 is an inside view of the fold-down baby wipes pocket integratedwithin the front wall of the backpack for perspective, the inside of thefront wall of the backpack is shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 6 is the inside view of the fold-down baby wipes pocket with a babywipes container held in the pocket by an elastic strap;

FIG. 7 is a front view of a vest type jacket including various babyparaphernalia holding compartments, the various compartments are closedwith zippers;

FIG. 8 is the front view of the jacket illustrated in FIG. 7 with a babywipes retaining structure zipper in an open orientation and a wipeextending therefrom;

FIG. 9 is an inside view of the jacket illustrating an alternateembodiment of a baby wipes retaining structure;

FIG. 10 is a second inside view of the jacket illustrating an integrateddiaper pocket;

FIG. 11 is the inside view of the jacket illustrated in FIG. 10,illustrating a diaper being held in place in the diaper pocket;

FIG. 12 is a back view of the jacket illustrating a changing mat pocketin the back of the jacket with the two openings to the pocket closedwith zippers;

FIG. 13 is the back view of the jacket as illustrated in FIG. 12, with achanging mat extending from one opening of the pocket;

FIG. 14 is the back view of the jacket as illustrated in FIGS. 12 and13, illustrating the changing mat removal from the pocket;

FIG. 15 is a front view of one embodiment of a baby wipe retainingstructure;

FIG. 16 is a back view of the embodiment of a baby wipes retainingstructure illustrated in FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is the front view of a messenger bag, including a removablefront flap that folds back allowing for access into the bag;

FIG. 18 is the front view of the messenger bag illustrated in FIG. 17,illustrating the front flap in an open orientation;

FIG. 19 is a front view of the messenger bag as illustrated in FIGS. 17and 18, illustrating the removable front flap of the bag partiallyfolded down;

FIG. 20 is a back view of the messenger bag, including various straps,which are attached to the bag with hooks;

FIG. 21 is the inside view of the messenger bag looking toward the rearof the bag;

FIG. 22 is the inside view of the messenger bag, looking toward thefront of the bag, illustrating the integrated baby wipes pocket in aclosed position;

FIG. 23 is the inside view of the messenger bag, looking toward thefront of the bag, illustrating the integrated baby wipes pocket in anopen position;

FIG. 24 is the inside view of the messenger bag as illustrated in FIGS.22-23;

FIG. 25 is a back isometric view of one example of a baby wipesretaining assembly that may be employed in various embodimentsconforming to aspects of the present invention;

FIGS. 26-36 illustrate various alternative baby wipes containerretaining structures conforming to aspects of the present invention;

FIGS. 37A-37F illustrate various views of a backpack conforming toaspects of the present invention; and

FIGS. 38A-38E illustrate various views of a messenger bag conforming toaspects of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various embodiments conforming to aspects of the invention involvegarments and carrying bags arranged with customized pockets,compartments, or other holding structures configured to conform withparaphernalia related to the care and wellbeing of babies and toddlers,such as baby wipes containers, bottles, diapers, changing mats, etc.(baby paraphernalia).

A first embodiment conforming to aspects of the invention involves abackpack with an integrated baby wipes pocket-like retaining structureaccessible through a pull down flap. The baby wipes container may bepositioned within the pocket such that an opening in the container,which provides access to the wipes therein, is aligned with an aperturein the pocket. The flap covers the aperture. When closed, the flap isheld shut with a hook and loop fastening arrangement, which in somearrangements cooperates with other aspects of the pocket to provide apartially airtight seal to help slow dehydration of baby wipes withinthe baby wipes container. Access to the baby wipes can be accomplishedby pulling down on a tab on the front flap, thereby separating the hookand loop material and exposing the pocket aperture and the baby wipes.With the flap in the open position, the baby wipes are accessed throughthe aperture. In one example, the baby wipes are held in place in apocket by an elastic strap that presses the container against the pocketwindow. The baby wipes container is slid into the pocket beneath theelastic strap from the side.

A second embodiment conforming to aspects of the invention is amessenger bag with an integrated wipes retaining structure similar tothat of the first embodiment. The messenger bag, like the backpack,further contains various pockets or other retaining structures insidethe bag for carrying various baby products. Further, the front flap ofthe messenger bag is removable, allowing for the possibility ofcustomizing the bag by providing flaps with separate designs. Thebackpack, messenger bag, or other bag forms, may include a speciallyadapted pocket switch for diapers. Two particular bag examples are setforth herein, i.e., a backpack and a messenger bag; however, a babywipes retaining structure or other arrangement set forth herein may bedeployed in other bags in conformance with aspects of the invention.

A third embodiment conforming to aspects of the invention involves agarment, such as a jacket or vest, including integrated retainingstructures specifically adapted and configured for carrying various babyproducts. The jacket form of the garment contains pockets sewn into thesides of the jacket for carrying baby bottles or other types ofcontainers. The jacket also contains an integrated baby wipes pocket,such as discussed above, which can be accessed through a zipper in thefront of the jacket or through a window or other aperture on the insideof the jacket. The jacket further contains a pocket on the inside of thejacket for carrying diapers. The back of the jacket includes anintegrated changing mat contained in a pocket closed with a zipper. Thechanging mat may be removed from the pocket and used when changing adiaper. This embodiment allows for easy transportation of various babyproducts without the requirement of carrying said products in a bag orother container.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-6, a backpack 10 conforming to aspects of thepresent invention includes a front wall 12 and a rear wall 14 separatedby a continuous side wall 16 and a bottom wall 18. To allow access to atleast one internal storage area of the backpack, the front wall of thebackpack is coupled with the continuous side wall by way of a zipper 20.The internal storage area may be segmented to provide a plurality ofinternal storage areas with an accompanying plurality of zippers foraccess, as will be illustrated with respect to the embodiment describedbelow with respect to FIGS. 37A-37F. Shoulder straps with anaccompanying plurality of zippers for access are connected with the rearwall of the backpack as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 37A. A user maywear the backpack by securing the straps over his shoulders.

A backpack conforming to aspects of the invention may further include anintegrated baby wipes pocket or retaining structure 22. In oneparticular implementation, the baby wipes pocket is positioned behind afront flap 24 on the front wall of the backpack. Although shown in alower front section of the backpack (opposite the rear wall) behind theflap, the integrated baby wipes retaining structure may be located atany location in the backpack and may or may not have a flap. FIGS. 15and 16 illustrate one integrated baby wipes retaining configurationemployed in the backpack of FIGS. 1-6. Other baby wipes pocket retainingconfigurations are shown in FIGS. 25-36, as well as other figures; anyof the illustrated pocket configurations may be employed in a backpackor other bag conforming to aspects of the invention.

The backpack illustrated in FIG. 1 shows the baby wipes pocket frontflap up in the closed position, concealing a baby wipes containersupported in the retaining structure. The bottom edge of the flap issewn into the front wall. Access to the baby wipes pocket can beaccomplished by pulling on a tab 26 attached to the baby wipes pocketfront flap and pulling down, which will disconnect the front flap from afront portion 28 of the retaining structure. As shown in FIGS. 2-4 and15, hook material 30 is sewn into the baby wipes retaining structure andloop material 32 is sewn into the flap to form a hook-and-loop fasteningarrangement to secure the front flap over the pocket, or at least thefront flap over the pocket opening.

Referring particularly to FIGS. 15 and 16, the baby wipes containerretaining structure includes a rectangular outer base structure 34,which may be made from nylon, polyester, poly vinyl chloride, or othernatural or synthetic materials, which may or may not be coated orotherwise processed for stain resistance, water proofing, etc. The basestructure defines an aperture 36 generally in the center region of thebase. The aperture, also referred to as a “window” herein, may be anysize or shape, and is generally sized to allow access to a baby wipeholding structure 38 (e.g., a conventional soft or hard rectangular babywipes container) secured in the retaining structure. Hook material 30 issewn into the base structure around the aperture. A baby wipes containeris shown in the pocket such that an opening 40 in the container providesaccess to the baby wipes in the container through the window. The backof the retaining structure includes an elastic strap 42 across theaperture 36. The strap is configured to hold the baby wipes container inthe baby wipes container pocket. The pocket accepts baby wipescontainers by sliding them beneath the elastic strap from the side. Inone example, the strap tends to force the wipes container outwardly suchthat the container opening is pressed into the window.

The baby wipes container retaining structure 22 is sewn into the frontside of the backpack. In one configuration, a conventional backpackconfiguration is modified by cutting or fabricating the front face ofthe pack to define an aperture. The retaining structure is then sewninto the front face in alignment with the aperture in the front face.Alternatively, the baby wipes container pocket is integrated in the bag.In such an implementation, referring again to FIGS. 15 and 16, the nylonportion 34 of the retaining structure is the front face 12 or other wallof the backpack, and the hook, strap, and window portion of theretaining structure are an integrated portion of the backpack. As such,a separate base structure 34 is not required as the pack wall forms thebase structure.

FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate the retaining structure front flap 24 fullyopen, showing loop material 32 sewn into the inside of the flap and thehook material 30 of the retaining structure. The hook and loopstructures may be reversed. The window 36 or other aperture in the frontof the retaining structure allows for access to the baby wipes container38 that may be placed in the pocket. In its closed position, the flaphides the baby wipes container. Moreover, the flap forms a partiallyairtight seal which slows the possible dehydration of the wipes withinthe pocket or within a container in the container opening and wipestherein are left exposed to air.

Referring to FIG. 5, the elastic strap 46 in the back of the retainingstructure is shown. As mentioned above, the strap holds the baby wipescontainer in the retaining structure. The pocket accepts a baby wipescontainer by sliding it beneath the elastic strap from the side. FIG. 6shows the baby wipes container secured behind the elastic strap. Thestrap tends to force the wipe container outwardly such that the wipeopening is pressed into the pocket window. As described in greaterdetail below with regard to FIG. 25, the elastic strap may include twoportions that are releasably fastened together.

Referring now to FIGS. 7-14, a vest type jacket 48 conforming to aspectsof the present invention is shown. The vest includes a front 50 and rear52 separated by left and right sides (54, 56). The front of the jacketis separated by a main zipper 58 from a lower edge 60 of the jacket to aneck area 62 of the jacket. On the upper sides of the vest, there areleft and right arm apertures 64. A jacket conforming to aspects of theinvention will have sleeves extending from the apertures, but willotherwise be similar to the vest shown herein. A vest or other jacketarrangement conforming to aspects of the invention further includesvarious integrated retaining structures for securing baby paraphernalia.The jacket may include one or more elastic pockets 66 sewn into the sideof the jacket designed to hold a baby bottle or other liquid container.The jacket may further include an integrated baby wipes retainingstructure 68 accessed through a zipper and slot 70 in the front of thejacket or through an opening on the inside of the jacket. Additionally,the jacket may include a changing mat pocket 72 and a diaper pocket 74,as well as other pockets 76.

FIG. 8 shows a baby wipe 78 pulled from a container within the babywipes pocket. FIG. 9 shows the right front side of the jacket open toillustrate the baby wipes pocket 68. The baby wipes pocket is sewn intothe inside of the jacket, in this example in the inside of the rightfront of the jacket. The pocket includes a pocket wall 80, which may bea rectangular section of fabric, sewn or otherwise secured to the insideof the front of the pocket. The pocket wall defines an aperture 82 ofsufficient size to allow a user to insert a baby wipes container throughthe opening and still retain the container in the pocket. In a pocketarranged to primarily support a flexible baby wipes container, thecontainer may be folded to fit through this pocket aperture.Alternatively, the pocket has an open top 84, i.e., the wall is sewn onboth sides and the bottom. The baby wipes container may then be insertedinto the pocket through the open top. In one example, the aperturedefines a generally elongate elliptical-like slot with the long axis ofthe slot arranged parallel with long sides of the rectangle. The slotallows a user to access the baby wipes within the container held in thepocket.

An outer access slot 70 is also formed in the front of the jacketadjacent the baby wipes pocket. The slot may be closed with a zipper,button, snap, or the like. The outer access slot, when open as shown inFIG. 8, allows a user to reach into the jacket to the wipes containeropening exposed by way of the pocket window. The outer access slotprovides an alternative way to access the baby wipes pocket withoutunzipping the main zipper of the jacket, which is done when accessingthe wipes otherwise.

Referring now to FIGS. 10 and 11, the integrated diaper pocket 74 isshown in the inside of the left front portion of the jacket. As withother retaining structures described herein, the integrated diaperpocket may be on the inside of the right front portion, the inside ofboth portions, or elsewhere. The diaper pocket 74 defines a rectangularshape and includes a diaper pocket wall 86 sewn or otherwise securedalong three sides (88A, B, C) of its periphery to the inside leftportion of the jacket in one particular implementation. The pocket mayform other shapes and may be dimensioned to any size suitable to fit atleast one diaper 90 of some specified size. In one example, therectangular shape of the pocket is sized to fit a larger diaper. Adiaper, when folded, typically defines a rectangular shape. The wall maybe of a nylon type material, a mesh arrangement, or any other suitablematerial. The wall may further include an elastic arrangement 92, suchas an elastic strap along its width, arranged to firmly hold the diaperstherein. The rectangular shape of the pocket may be arranged such thatthe long sides (88A, B) of the rectangle are generally parallel with themain zipper. The pocket may be open along its top edge 94. In oneparticular configuration, the top edge of the pocket may include theelastic structure 92 such that it forms a closing mechanism for thepocket. The top edge may also include a zipper, snap, button, or otherclosing structure; however, such closing structures are not necessary.Diapers are placed in the pocket by sliding the diaper into the pocketthrough the open top.

Referring now to FIGS. 12-14, a changing mat pocket 72 and associatedchanging mat 96 are illustrated. The changing mat pocket is accessed byvertically oriented slots 98 formed in the back 52 of the jacket 48. Theslots are formed near either side of the jacket. The slots are generallyarranged in a longitudinal orientation extending upward from an areanear the bottom 60 of the jacket. The slots may include a zipper, snap,buttons, or other closure structures. Between the slots, an elongaterectangular pocket, shown in dashed line, is formed in the back of thejacket. The pocket includes a rectangular mesh piece 100 sewn into theback of the jacket. The mesh is sewn to the outside of both slots andtransversely between the upper edges of the slots and the lower edges ofthe slots. A changing mat, in one particular implementation, alsodefines a rectangular shape. When folded in a tri-fold orientation, thechanging mat is slightly smaller than the dimension of the changing matpocket. Thus, when tri-folded, the mat 96 (shown in dash in FIG. 12)fits within the changing mat pocket. It is also possible to provideother changing mat pocket configurations and mat sizes. The changing matis meant for supporting an infant or toddler when changing a diaper. Thechanging mat may or may not include a padding structure depending on anyparticular implementation. The changing mat may also be formed of amaterial that facilitates easy cleanup. A jacket may include the mat ornot, depending on any particular configuration.

As discussed above, one particular jacket conforming to aspects of theinvention includes a plurality of specially arranged retainingstructures particularly configured to support baby paraphernalia. Theretaining structures include a baby wipes container structure 68 in thefront of the jacket and accessible from either a slot 70 in the front ofthe jacket or from the inside of the jacket, a diaper pocket 74 in theinside of the front of the jacket, and a changing mat pocket 72 in therear of the jacket. It is possible for the jacket to include otherarrangements of retaining structures and to locate the retainingstructures in other locations of the jacket.

Further, it is also possible to include a baby bottle pocket 66. In oneimplementation, the baby bottle pockets are sewn into both sides of thevest. Each bottle pocket is rectangular and has each side edge 102A, Band the bottom edge 102C sewn to the respective side of the jacket. Thetop edge 102D is open so that a bottle may be placed in the pocket. Thetop edge may include elastic, a zipper, snaps, or other structure tosecure a bottle within the pocket.

FIGS. 17-24 illustrate a messenger bag 104 arrangement conforming toaspects of the present invention. The messenger bag includes a frontwall 106 and a rear wall 108 separated by a continuous side wall 110,which collectively define at least one inner containment area 112 of thebag. A front flap 114 is connected with the back wall of the bag andextends over the top of the bag to the bottom of the front of the bag.The flap covers the containment area. Along the front of the flap azipper 116 is provided for accessing a pocket within the front flap. Afirst set of adjustable straps 118 is connected to the bottom of the bagnear either side of the bag. An associated second set of straps 120 isconnected to the bottom of the flap in alignment with the first set ofstraps. The straps may be connected with side release bucklearrangements 122 secured to each strap. The straps hold the flap inposition and secure the flap to cover the containment area.

The front flap may be removably connected to the top of the messengerbag. In one particular implementation, the front flap 114 is removablyconnected to the top of the bag by way of a hook and loop arrangement124. One familiar example of a hook and loop arrangement is Velcro™. Byhaving a removable flap, a particular person may customize their bag byway of flaps with unique designs thereon, or replace the flap if it getssoiled. FIG. 17 illustrates the flap partially disconnected from thebag.

FIG. 18 illustrates the front of the messenger bag with the front flap114 open exposing a baby wipes container retaining structure 126integrated in the front 106 of the bag. A baby wipes container may beheld in the retaining structure such that the wipes are accessiblethrough the window. FIG. 19 illustrates the front of the messenger bagwith the flap partially open. The retainer structure includes two stripsof hook material 128 to either side of an aperture (window) 130. Theflap includes corresponding strips of loop material 132 arranged toengage the hook strips. With the flap loop strips connected with thehook strips in the front, the flap forms a cover over the retainerwindow. It is possible to also include the hook and loop structures inother arrangements. For example, the hook strips may surround the windowin a rectangular shape, and corresponding loop strips may also form arectangle in the flap. The retaining structure may also include aseparate flap. In such an arrangement, the main flap would not includethe loop material; instead, the secondary flap would include the loopmaterial. Such an arrangement would form a semi-seal around the windowto slow dehydration of wipes should the container holding the wipes nothave a lid. The retaining structure may include a sleeve or otherarrangement to position and hold a baby wipes container so that thewipes are accessible through the window.

FIG. 20 illustrates the back 108 of the messenger bag. A shoulder strap134 is removably connected with the top rear of the messenger bag at theleft and right sides. Further, a waist strap 136 is removably connectedbetween one of two loops 138 provided at the lower rear corners of thebag and one of two loops 138 at the upper corners of the bag. Theshoulder strap may also be connected between the hooks at the uppercorners of the bag.

FIG. 21 illustrates four elongate rectangular pockets 140 formed in theinside rear of the bag. The pockets may be particularly configured tohold “sippy cups,” baby bottles, or other liquid containers and otherbaby and toddler paraphernalia. The pockets are formed from a section offabric sewn to the back wall of the bag along the dashed lines.

FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate the inside of the front of the messenger bagand particularly the baby wipes container retaining structure 126. Theretaining structure includes a retaining strap 142 including a first 144and second 146 portion. The first portion is connected with the insidefront wall to one side of the window 130. The second portion isconnected with the inside front wall to the other side of the window.The portions may be sewn to the front wall. The first portion includesloop material 148 secured thereon. The second portion includes a hookstrip 150. To secure a baby wipes container in the containmentstructure, the first portion is folded over the container, and thesecond portion is folded over the first portion and the hook and loopstructures coupling the two portions together over the container 38, asshown in FIG. 22. This retaining arrangement may also be deployed inother implementations such as the backpack.

FIG. 24 includes an alternative retaining structure 152, particularly anelastic structure 154 replaces the first and second portions of theembodiment of FIGS. 22 and 23. The elastic portion is sewn to the insidefront of the bag along two sides of the window 130. A baby wipescontainer 38 may be slid under the elastic strap, and the elastic strapwill hold the baby wipes container.

FIGS. 25-36 are rear and rear isometric views of various alternativebaby wipes container retaining structures. Generally, the variousalternative structures illustrate different ways to secure the containerwithin the retaining structure such that it may be positioned so thatthe wipe access port of the container is positioned in the retainingstructure window. These various alternative structures may beintegrated, such as by sewing, gluing, etc., into backpacks, messengerbags, jackets, etc., in conformance with various aspects of theinvention.

FIG. 25 illustrates a retaining structure similar to that discussed withrespect to the messenger bag implementation. The retaining structure 156includes a rectangular main section 158 defining a window 160. The mainsection may be any suitable shape to secure to a backpack, etc., and thewindow may also be any suitable shape to facilitate access to baby wipeswithin a baby wipes container within the retaining structure. A firstflap 162 is sewn to one side edge of the main section and a second flap164 is secured to a second edge of the main section. The flaps includecooperative components of a hook and loop fastening arrangement 182 orother type of fastening arrangement, such as buckles, snaps, a zipper,etc., and are positioned to connect and secure a baby wipes container.

FIGS. 26 and 27 each illustrate a retaining structure 170, 172 with arectangular body 174 similar to that illustrated in FIG. 25 and others.To secure a baby wipes container, the retaining structure includes twostraps 176,178, arranged across the width of the main body (FIG. 26) oracross the length of the main body (FIG. 27). Each strap is fastened tothe main body along one side. An eyelet 180, buckle or other structureis secured to the main body along the opposing edge. The eyelet receivesthe strap. The strap also includes a hook and loop fastening arrangement182 positioned on the strap so that when it is positioned in the eyelet,the strap may be folded back and restrained across a baby containerpositioned under the straps.

FIG. 28 illustrates a retaining structure 184 substantially similar tothat illustrated in FIG. 25, with the exception that the flaps 186, 188are sewn into the top edge and bottom edge, respectively, of the mainbody 190. The flaps are then positioned to close across the longerlength portion of the rectangular main structure rather than across theshorter width portion of the main body as in FIG. 25.

FIGS. 29, 31, and 34 illustrate baby wipes container structures186,188,190 respectively, employing one or more elastic cords 192 tosecure a baby wipes container. The embodiment of FIG. 29 illustratesthree separate elastic cords that may be stretched laterally across therear of the container structure. The elastic cords may be stretched tosecure differently sized containers. The embodiment of FIG. 34 issimilar to the embodiment of FIG. 29 except that a pair of elastic cordsis arranged latitudinally and a pair is arranged longitudinally. Theembodiment of FIG. 31 illustrates a single cord interleaved or lacedacross the container structure. Ends of the elastic cords are adjacentlysituated and a buckle or clip 194 may be employed to facilitateloosening or tightening of the cord to fit differently sized containers.The embodiment of FIG. 31 may also use a non-elastic cord as the bucklecan be used to allow for differently sized containers. These embodimentsare well suited, as are other embodiments, for securing different sizedbaby wipes containers. For example, baby wipes container structuresoften have a depth that is a function of the number of wipes heldtherein. As such, a baby wipes container that is sold with 50 wipes willbe shallower than one sold with 100 wipes, and so on. The adjustablestraps are suitable for securing differently dimensioned containers.

FIGS. 30 and 36 are embodiments of a retaining structure (196, 198)similar to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 23 and 25. In theembodiment of FIG. 36, the first and second portions are arranged toclose longitudinally rather than latitudinally as shown in theembodiments of FIGS. 23, 25, and 30. FIGS. 32 and 35 are embodiments ofa retaining structure similar to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 15and 16. Finally, FIG. 33 illustrates a pocket 200 sewn to the back ofthe retaining structure. The pocket includes a rectangular sheet ofnylon or other material sewn to three sides of the retaining structureand with an open end. The wipes container may be slid into the open endand held within the pocket. The sheet may also be an elastic material toallow for differently sized containers to fit within the pocket.

FIGS. 37A-37F illustrate one particular backpack implementationconforming to aspects of the present invention. The implementation setforth in FIGS. 37A-37F includes a baby wipes container retainingstructure 22 as discussed above with regard to the implementation ofFIGS. 1-6. The backpack set forth in FIGS. 37A-37F includes severalutility pockets and internal storage areas. As best shown in FIGS. 37Aand 37E, a diaper storage area 202 is defined in the upper rear sectionof the backpack. The diaper storage area is defined by a piece ofmaterial 204 sewn to a continuous side wall 206 of the backpack. Azippered slot 208 is provided in the continuous side wall, along the topportion of the backpack, to provide access to the diaper storage pocket.Thus, the continuous side wall and the piece of material provide thewalls of the pocket.

A second zipper 210, along the majority of the length of the continuousside wall, provides access to an internal storage area 212. The internalstorage area shares the back wall of the backpack, and is generallysituated below the diaper pocket. FIG. 37B illustrates a second internalstorage area 214 accessible from the front flap, which is secured to thecontinuous side wall by a third zipper. The second internal storage areaincludes two mesh pockets, and a third mesh pocket behind the two meshpockets. Finally, FIG. 37C illustrates a third internal storage area 216situated between the first and second internal storage areas. The thirdinternal storage area also includes a pair of mesh pockets.

FIGS. 38A-38E illustrate one particular messenger bag implementationconforming to aspects of the invention. The messenger bag has a babywipes container structure 126 as set forth with respect to the messengerbag implementation of FIGS. 17-20. Additionally, the drawings illustratevarious other pockets and internal storage areas that may be provided ina messenger bag conforming to aspects of the invention. For example,FIG. 38A illustrates a magazine pocket 218 in the front flap 114. FIG.38B illustrates two bottle pockets 220 integrated into the side wall ofthe messenger bag. FIG. 38C illustrates a mat pocket 222 in the rear ofthe messenger bag. The mat pocket, in this example, is slightly smallerthan the overall rear of the messenger bag. FIGS. 38D and 38E illustratemany of the different internal pockets that may be provided in amessenger bag conforming to aspects of the invention.

Various embodiments and aspects of embodiments of the invention aredescribed herein, and some embodiments are particularly described asbeing fabricated with a specific material, such as nylon. It is alsopossible to fabricate various embodiments with polyester, polyvinylchloride, cotton, as well as other suitable natural, blended, andsynthetic materials. It is also possible to coat or otherwise processthe materials with chemicals and treatments intended for stainresistance, waterproofing, wind resistance, etc. Some embodiments employhook and loop fasteners, zippers, buckles and the like. It is alsopossible to employ other fastening arrangements, such as snaps, buttons,clips, etc., or rearrange the illustrated fastening arrangements.

All directional references (e.g., upper, lower, upward, downward, left,right, leftward, rightward, top, bottom, above, below, vertical,horizontal, clockwise, and counterclockwise) are only used foridentification purposes to aid the reader's understanding of theembodiments of the present invention, and do not create limitations,particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of the inventionunless specifically set forth in the claims. Joinder references (e.g.,attached, coupled, connected, and the like) are to be construed broadlyand may include intermediate members between a connection of elementsand relative movement between elements. As such, joinder references donot necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and infixed relation to each other.

In some instances, components are described with reference to “ends”having a particular characteristic and/or being connected to anotherpart. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the presentinvention is not limited to components which terminate immediatelybeyond their points of connection with other parts. Thus, the term “end”should be interpreted broadly, in a manner that includes areas adjacent,rearward, forward of, or otherwise near the terminus of a particularelement, link, component, member or the like. In methodologies directlyor indirectly set forth herein, various steps and operations aredescribed in one possible order of operation, but those skilled in theart will recognize that steps and operations may be rearranged,replaced, or eliminated without necessarily departing from the spiritand scope of the present invention. Various electrical connections areillustrated in various embodiments herein. However, the claims shouldnot be construed to require any electrical connection require a directconnection, as it is contemplated that transmission of a signal, data,or provision of other electrical requirements may be achieved through adirect connection as well as communication through intermediatecomponents, through a transmission medium, wirelessly, with analog ordigital signals, etc. It is intended that all matter contained in theabove description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall beinterpreted as illustrative only and not limiting. Changes in detail orstructure may be made without departing from the spirit of the inventionas defined in the appended claims.

1. A bag comprising: a retaining structure adapted to secure a babywipes container, the retaining structure comprising: a portion of fabricdefining a slot; and at least one retaining portion of fabric positionedacross the slot.
 2. The bag of claim 1 wherein the portion of fabricdefines a substantially rectangular portion of fabric.
 3. The bag ofclaim 2 wherein the substantially rectangular portion of fabric iscoupled with a portion of the bag.
 4. The bag of claim 3 wherein thesubstantially rectangular portion of fabric is coupled with a portion ofthe bag such that the slot is aligned with a second slot in the portionof the bag.
 5. The bag of claim 1 wherein the portion of the fabricdefining a slot is an integral portion of the bag.
 6. The bag of claim 1wherein the at least one retaining portion defines an elasticrectangular piece of fabric coupled with the portion of fabric to eitherside of the slot.
 7. The bag of claim 1 wherein the at least oneretaining portion includes a first retaining fabric member coupled withthe portion of fabric defining a slot to one side of the slot, the atleast one retaining portion further includes a second retaining membercoupled with the portion of fabric defining a slot on another side ofthe slot.
 8. The bag of claim 7 wherein the first retaining fabricmember includes a first coupling member and the second retaining fabricmember includes a second coupling member adapted to releasably engagethe first coupling member.
 9. The bag of claim 8 wherein the firstcoupling member includes hook material and the second coupling memberincludes loop material, the hook material and loop material adapted toreleasably connect in a hook and loop coupling arrangement.
 9. The bagof claim 1 wherein the at least one retaining portion of fabric includesat least one first strap with a first coupling member connected to theportion of fabric defining a slot to one side of the slot, and furtherincludes at least one second strap with a second coupling memberconnected to the portion of the fabric defining a slot to another sideof the slot, the first and second coupling members adapted to releasablyconnect.
 10. The bag of claim 1 wherein the at least one retainingportion of fabric includes a lacing arrangement in engagement with aplurality of eyelets fastened to the portion of fabric defining a slot.11. The bag of claim 1 wherein the at least one retaining portion offabric includes at least one elastic cord coupled with the at least oneportion of fabric defining a slot.
 12. The bag of claim 1 wherein the atleast one retaining portion of fabric is secured to the portion offabric defining a slot along three sides of the slot to define acontainer pocket.
 13. The bag of claim 1 wherein the bag is selectedfrom the group comprising a backpack, a messenger bag, a briefcase, aroller bag, a suitcase, a garment bag, and a purse.
 14. The bag of claim1 wherein the bag is a backpack having a first side wall and second sidewall, the backpack further including a diaper pocket comprising a bottommember extending between the first side wall and the second side wall,and a top member having an access slot to the diaper pocket.
 15. The bagof claim 12 wherein the top member is a fabric panel defining at least aportion of a top of the backpack.
 16. The bag of claim 12 furthercomprising a zipper operably connected with the access slot.
 17. The bagof claim 1 further comprising: a baby wipes container secured betweenthe at least one retaining portion of fabric and the portion of fabricdefining a slot such that an access slot in the baby wipes container isaligned with the slot.
 18. The bag of claim 1 wherein the bag is amessenger bag, the messenger bag further comprising: a disconnectablefront flap.
 19. The bag of claim 18, the removable front flap includinga pocket.
 20. The bag of claim 19, the removable front flap including asection of hook and loop fastening material, the bag including acooperating section of hook and loop fastening material to facilitatedisconnection of the front flap from the bag.
 21. A garment comprising:a baby wipes container pocket comprising: a fabric panel secured to aninner portion of the garment, the fabric panel defining a slot orientedto provide access to a baby wipes container placed within the baby wipescontainer pocket.
 22. The garment of claim 21 wherein the fabric panelis substantially rectangular and is secured to a portion of the garmentalong three sides.
 23. The garment of claim 21 wherein the substantiallyrectangular fabric panel is dimensioned and secured to the portion ofthe garment along three sides such that an access slot in a baby wipescontainer is aligned with the slot when the baby wipes container isplaced in the baby wipes container pocket.
 24. The garment of claim 21wherein the baby wipes container pocket further comprises a slot betweenan outer surface of the garment and the baby wipes container pocket. 25.The garment of claim 24 wherein the baby wipes container pocket furthercomprises a zippered slot between an outer surface of the garment andthe baby wipes container pocket.
 26. The garment of claim 21 furthercomprising: a baby changing mat pocket particularly dimensioned toreceive a baby changing mat, the baby changing mat pocket comprising: asecond fabric panel secured to an inner portion of the garment; and anaccess slot in the garment, the access slot dimensioned and oriented toallow a user to insert the baby mat within the baby changing mat pocket.27. The garment of claim 26 wherein the baby changing mat pocket furtherincludes the baby changing mat.
 28. The garment of claim 27 wherein thebaby changing mat pocket further includes a zipper operably associatedwith the access slot.
 29. The garment of claim 28 wherein the babychanging mat pocket further comprises a second access slot in thegarment.
 30. The garment of claim 29 wherein the first access slot andthe second access slot are each vertically oriented on the garment andseparated by a first distance.
 31. The garment of claim 30 wherein thesecond fabric panel is substantially rectangular and is sewn to thegarment along its four sides, the separation between two sides being asecond distance that is greater than the first distance between thefirst access slot and the second access slot.
 32. The garment of claim31 further comprising: a diaper pocket configured and dimensioned tohold at least one diaper, the diaper pocket comprising: a third fabricpanel secured to an inner portion of the garment such that there is anopening to deposit a diaper in the pocket.
 33. The garment of claim 32further comprising at least one bottle pocket, the at least one bottlepocket comprising a fourth fabric panel secured to an outside surface ofthe garment such that there is an opening to receive a bottle.